In his translation of Aesop’s fables, Martin Luther wrote, “Truth is the most intolerable thing on earth.”
John the Baptist experienced that truth when Herod arrested him. John had condemned Herod for marrying his brother’s wife. Ultimately, John would lose his head over the matter.
Mark 6:20 contains an insightful comment, “Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.”
John had also proclaimed the coming of the Christ. For his part, Herod was caught between his respect for John, and Herodias, who hated John and wanted him dead.
Though attracted to the Word, Herod would not allow it to renew his mind and transform his life. He remained a conformist to the world instead of one who, through faith, lived in the new life that Christ gives.
United in baptism to Jesus’ death we are united with him in his resurrection. That is what happened to John when he was beheaded.
What happened to Herod? Eventually, Emperor Caligula banished Herodias and Herod to Lyon, Gaul (France).
The world is still puzzled by the Truth. However the Truth that is Christ is the only Savior the world has.
Almighty God, You gave Your servant John the Baptist to be the forerunner of Jesus Christ, in both his preaching of repentance and his innocent death. Grant that we, who have died and risen with Christ in Holy Baptism, may daily repent of our sins, patiently suffer for the sake of the truth, and fearlessly bear witness to His victory over death; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
By Rev. Ronald Jansen
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